Gerald A. "Gerry" Welbes' Obituary
Gerald A. “Gerry” Welbes, age 82, passed away on Monday, December 4, 2023, at Trinity Health Muskegon Hospital in Muskegon, MI after a brief illness. He was born on April 26, 1941, to Ambrose and Helen (Kloss) Welbes in Ludington, MI. Gerry graduated from Muskegon Catholic Central in 1961. He served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. On April 30, 1966, he married Sandra L. “Sandy” Jensen at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church. Together, they cherished over 50 years of love and laughter. Gerry was a faithful servant and member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Spring Lake. Gerry was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie #668, and was a Golden Eagle. Gerry loved sports and he was an avid bowler and golfer. He was an avid Chicago Cubs fan. He was also very proud of his Polish heritage, enjoying Polka music and making his delicious homemade sausage for Christmas and Easter. Gerry had a sense of humor that could easily fill a room with laughter. His quick wit, dry sense of humor, and loving spirit will be missed by many. He is survived by his two children, Robert (Roxanne) Welbes and Amber Welbes; grandson, Jake Rosema; brother, Martin (Vickie) Welbes; sister, Carlene (Roger) Horness; and many family members and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents; his loving wife, Sandy; and his brothers, Kenneth and David. The Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, December 11, 2023, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 406 E. Savidge St., Spring Lake, MI 49456, with visitation one-hour prior. A visitation with the family will be held from 1-3:00 PM on Sunday, December 10, 2023, at The Lee Chapel of Sytsema Funeral & Cremation Services, 6291 S. Harvey St., Norton Shores, MI 49444 with a Rosary beginning at 1:00 PM. Memorial Contributions in Gerald’s honor can be directed to the family for funeral expenses. The family invites you to share memories with them at www.sytsemafh.com.
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